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In just a few weeks, the Disney Magic will return to New York City for a limited time, with special sailings to the Bahamas and Canada through November. These extraordinary cruises are jam-packed with magic and adventure, giving you so many opportunities for memorable family fun. Here are the top five reasons to join us on a cruise vacation from the Big Apple this fall … 1. Experience epic fun during Marvel Day at Sea. On seven special sailings from New York City, your family will be immersed in the Marvel Universe during Marvel Day at Sea. Occurring on one action-packed day at sea during your seven- or eight-night cruise, you’ll encounter favorite Marvel Super Heroes and Villains and enjoy an extraordinary deck show spectacular, Marvel-themed family and youth activities, special merchandise, unique food and beverage offerings, and much more. Marvel Day at Sea departs from the Big Apple on Oct. 6, 14, 21 and 28, as well as Nov. 4, 11 and 18. 2. Celebrate the season with Halloween on the High Seas. Get ready for spooktacular fun on Disney Magic cruises departing New York City from Sept. 27 to Oct. 28. On these special voyages, the ship transforms into a ghoulish wonderland for our Halloween on the High Seas celebration. From costume parties and eerie eats to ghostly movies, haunted stories and more, prepare for a wickedly good time! 3. Visit our private island and Walt Disney World on Bahamian sailings. On each Bahamian cruise from New York, you’ll visit our award-winning private island, Castaway Cay, for a full day of family fun in the sun. You’ll also have the chance to visit Walt Disney World when the ship docks at Port Canaveral, Florida. Tickets and round-trip transportation to the parks are included, making for a hassle-free day trip. Seven- and eight-night sailings to the Bahamas depart New York on Oct. 6, 14 and 28, as well as Nov. 4, 11 and 18. 4. Discover maritime charm during voyages to Canada and New England. Three special cruises to Canada from New York take you to seaside cities brimming with picturesque scenery and maritime charm. A seven-night sailing includes a first-ever call on Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, in addition to two stops in Nova Scotia: Sydney and Halifax. Four- and five-night sailings visit Saint John, New Brunswick, with the five-night cruise also calling on the quaint New England town of Bar Harbor, Maine, another new port of call for Disney Cruise Line. Cruises to Canada depart Sept. 27, Oct. 2 and Oct. 21. 5. Enjoy fun-filled entertainment for the entire family. On all Disney Magic cruises, you’ll be treated to incredible entertainment like only Disney can do. The ship is home to imaginative spaces for kids like Marvel’s Avengers Academy, adult-exclusive areas, one-of-a-kind dining experiences, the thrilling AquaDunk slide and much more! Live entertainment, from Broadway-caliber stage spectaculars such as “Tangled: The Musical” to the swashbuckling Pirate Night deck party and Disney character interactions galore, every moment on the Disney Magic is sure to be unforgettable. An added bonus, four of these sailings from New York City include Marvel Day at Sea and Halloween on the High Seas. Experience both of these incredible celebrations on Bahamian cruises departing Oct. 6, Oct. 14 and 28, and the seven-night Canada cruise departing Oct. 21. Talk about the Disney cruise of a lifetime! View the full article

Resort dining in Walt Disney World can be a massive amount of fun. Learn About: Landscape of Flavors Disney World Restaurants And while we all know there are great resort spots like ‘Ohana, California Grill, and Sanaa, we don’t often spend much time celebrating food courts, even though they are packed with options and can be pretty cool. But just over five years ago, a Resort food court came along that was kind of a game changer: the Art of Animation Resort’s Landscape of Flavors. It’s true: we give this place a lot of credit due to its more innovative dishes with some international flair. (Though I have to give a nod to some other Value Resort food courts for spicing things up recently with things like the All-Star Movies World Premiere Food Court Secret Menu!) So when I stepped into Landscape of Flavors during my recent Disney World trip to cover the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival, I was — as I always am with this place — optimistic. Atmosphere Here’s the typical scene upon arrival at Art of Animation, preparing you to enter the extremely colorful Resort. Art of Animation Resort Landscape of Flavors is located in Animation Hall. Art Of Animation Entrance Art of Animation Resort Art of Animation Resort Since Art of Animation opened just over five years ago, Landscape of Flavors has been one of my favorite resort food courts. Landscape of Flavors Sign The vibe is fluid and colorful, with lots of careful lighting to accent the contours of the ceilings and dividers. Landscape of Flavors Seating areas are plentiful and pretty. Circular light fixtures anchor the spaces, and artwork on the walls represents the four movies brought to life at the resort, since each is likewise represented in the food court. Landscape of Flavors Lion King Dining Area Aside from being themed to The Lion King, Little Mermaid, Cars, and Finding Nemo, each of the seating areas have a kind of movement to them, owing to the curved partitions and interesting floor patterns. Landscape of Flavors seating Be sure to pick your favorite flick’s area when you grab a seat! Eats Like all resort food courts, menus at each station are brightly displayed on LED screens, with changing images and menu items. Take your time reviewing the options, since there are TONS and they just keep on rotating! Menu Screen We appreciate that even on the burger menu, you can still catch glimpses of desserts. Always plan ahead, I say! Menu Screen One of the hallmarks of Landscape of Flavors is the sheer variety. While you’ll find all the regular food court classics (Chicken Breast Nuggets, Burgers, and the like), there are more unique items than what you’ll tend to find in other Value Resort courts. Of particular note is the Naan Bread, which is still available here! I also love the Cheesy Pesto Bread (also still on the menu!!). Believe it or not, though, I actually went the more traditional route this time, with just some mild twists. Landscape of Flavors Grub First up, a “Steak” and Egg Burger. Now, I would probably ordinarily recommend avoiding food in quotation marks, but in this case, I’ll let it slide. It’s actually an Angus Beef Burger, which was still (to no one’s surprise) dry and overcooked, but a slight improvement over the typical patty in flavor. The burger is topped with a slice of Cheddar Cheese and some good Disney bacon. “Steak” and Egg Burger The play on “Steak” and Egg comes in the form of a Fried Egg that’s placed on top of all the other components. And I know what you’re thinking: “You didn’t mention any sauce, so obviously that’s a perfectly runny egg to add moisture to the burger!” Fried Egg Ehhhhhh, not so much. The egg is pretty much over-hard, so there’s no rush of egg yolk to make this thing interesting. Steak and Egg Burger Cross-Section But honestly, the Surf and Surf Burger is still going to be the main winner here. But there was a new menu item that I HAD to try: the Chili-Cheese Fries for Two for $8.99. The “for Two” comes from the menu, and I think that’s a safe plan (although if you wanna take a stab at it by yourself… well, join my club!). The serving comes on an entree-size plate, and it is massive. A huge pile of fries is covered in globs of gooey cheese. (It’s not rocket science, I know.) Cheese Fries The Chili is usually served on top, but I requested it on the side (you can see it in the group pic with the Burger). So, approach it from any angle: dump it, drizzle it, dip it. It’s up to you. I went for a spoon-it-out-all-over-that-luscious-pile-of-fries angle. It’s a ground beef chili with lots of rich tomato sauce, so the contrast with the creamy cheese and the salty fries is terrific. Cheese Fries with Chili! DFB TIP! Just as a note: I knew I was going to dive into the Chili-Cheese Fries, so I opted not to get the regular side items with the “Steak” and Egg Burger. Typically you can choose two sides with a burger or sandwich, but if you just want the sandwich, let the Cast Member know and they’ll deduct the cost of the sides from the price. Following all that savory stuff, it was clearly cupcake time. And thankfully, the dessert and bakery cases at Landscape of Flavors are fully loaded with options. Gelato is always a solid choice here, with lots of topping options, too. But on this visit, I couldn’t help but notice the Confetti Cupcake due to its somewhat unusual appearance. Confetti Cupcake Yeah, a bit of an odd look with that rounded scoop of vanilla buttercream on top, right? Though it does kind of look like a cute sundae with the chocolate drizzle and colorful sprinkles. I thought the buttercream was spot on — delicious. And the confetti cake itself was moist and flavorful. So this was a good choice! Nosh or Not? You’ll want to visit Landscape of Flavors if: You’re staying at Art of Animation or Pop Century Resort (it’s an easy walk from Pop) and want to embrace your Resort’s offerings. You’ve been meaning to check out Art of Animation (it’s super fun!) and have time to grab a meal or snack. An FYI for those using Disney bus transportation (until those gondolas arrive!!), the nearest park is Hollywood Studios. You like interesting quick service meal options and don’t mind going off the beaten path. You won’t want to visit Landscape of Flavors if: You aren’t staying at Art of Animation (or her sister resort, Pop Century), and you have no reason to go. You don’t care for food court dining (and, honestly, the longer than usual wait times that are often involved). You don’t have time in your touring strategy to leave a park for a meal. Overall True, I had mostly traditional tastes this time, but Landscape of Flavors really lives up to its name by inviting guests to jump in and try something new. And this food court continues to offer selections that we don’t see often in a theme park, to say nothing of a food court! I always enjoy a stop here. Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! The 2017 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, Second Edition, is now available! With more than 650 pages, the 2017 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, Second Edition is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 20+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you’ll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to get your copy of the 2017 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, Second Edition E-book — and use code SAVE2017 for a 20% discount for a limited time! Use code SAVE2017 at check-out for a 20% off the cover price! What’s your favorite resort food court? Tell us about it in the comments! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: Chocolate and Carrot Cake Mini Whoopie Pies at Art of Animation Resort Art of Animation Resort’s Landscapes Cafe to Open in Summer 2012 Review: Lunch at Landscape of Flavors in Disney World’s Art of Animation Resort View the full article

Hurricane Irma may have chased a number of shows away from Florida, but you can’t keep Disney away from Orlando for long. “Dare to Dream,” the latest production from Disney on Ice is headed for Orlando’s Amway Center on May 11-13. The production had been scheduled for September, but was postponed... View the full article

Walt Disney World has announced its plans for the 35th anniversary of Epcot, which it will celebrate at the theme park on Oct. 1. The occasion will be noted at 10:01 a.m. with a ceremony on the Fountain View stage. Entertainment will include the Voices of Liberty and Mariachi Cobre, according to... View the full article

Walt Disney World has announced its plans for the 35th anniversary of Epcot, which it will celebrate at the theme park on Oct. 1. The occasion will be noted at 10:01 a.m. with a ceremony on the Fountain View stage. Entertainment will include the Voices of Liberty and Mariachi Cobre, according to... View the full article

Happy first day of fall! The Walt Disney World Resort is chock-full of fun to celebrate this season, with the return of annual festivals, events and more. Here are our suggestions for 10 must-do’s this fall at Walt Disney World Resort. 1. Celebrate Epcot’s 35th Anniversary – Visit Epcot on Sunday, October 1, to celebrate the park’s 35th anniversary with a ceremony, exclusive celebration merchandise, a special edition of “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” and more. Click here to see the full plans. 2. Visit Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom – The world of Pandora – the World of Avatar is can’t-miss adventure this fall. Here, guests can soar on a banshee, sail down a sacred river and explore a world of glowing rainforests and floating mountains. Don’t forget to stop into Satu’li Canteen for some exotic eats. 3. Check Out “Happily Ever After” at Magic Kingdom Park – Magic Kingdom Park’s new nighttime fireworks show is truly must-see entertainment. This stunning nighttime extravaganza features lasers, lights and projections – plus characters and scenes from more than 25 Disney films and awe-inspiring fireworks. 4. Dine Around the World at The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – This guest-favorite fall event is back with 35 specialized marketplaces with unique menus for guests to enjoy. 5. Attend an Eat to the Beat Concert – This year’s Eat to the Beat concert lineup at Epcot features 32 bands, including Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Sugar Ray, Boyz II Men and more. Concerts are held at the park’s America Gardens Theatre and are included in park admission. 6. Celebrate At Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party – Magic Kingdom Park is already hosting this guest-favorite event that features “Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade,” the “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular,” “Happy HalloWishes Fireworks Spectacular” and more. Available dates are: September 22, 24, 26 and 29; October 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29 and 31; and November 1. Visit Disneyworld.com/Halloween for party dates and prices. 7. Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – The Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend takes place Nov. 2-5, and includes Kids Races, a 5K, a 10K and a Half-Marathon. 8. Celebrate the Holidays Early at a Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – Magic Kingdom Park will light up with excitement of the holiday season starting November 9, with the return of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Party nights include “Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade,” “Holiday Wishes” fireworks and more. Event dates are: November 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 26 and 28; and December 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21 and 22. 9. New Merchandise at Disney Parks – Keep your eye out for new Disney merchandise to debut this fall, including new items that celebrate Epcot’s 35th anniversary, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Parties and more. View the full article

Are you planning to visit Epcot for the park’s 35th anniversary on October 1? With the anniversary falling on a weekend – not to mention during the popular Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – there’s sure to be a ton of fun for all! Here are a few highlights of what’s planned for this year’s anniversary celebration. Commemorative Guide Map – Be sure to pick up a commemorative Epcot Guidemap and Times Guide on your way into the park. They’ll be available at the park’s Main Entrance, at International Gateway and Guest Relations. Anniversary Celebration – A special celebration will be held at the Fountain View stage at 10:01 a.m. Gather to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Epcot with Mariachi Cobre and Voices of Liberty. Exclusive Anniversary Merchandise – Guests visiting Epcot on October 1 will have the chance to grab anniversary merchandise as a part of the “I Was There” collection (see Steven Miller’s previous post for a full look), which has been specifically designed for this year’s milestone. Items in the collection will be available only at a “pop-up” shop (which will be open for one day only/while supplies last), located just past the Art of Disney location at Epcot on October 1. Additional Epcot 35th Anniversary logo merchandise (not a part of the “I Was There” line) will be available in select merchandise locations at the park, such as Mouse Gear and on the Shop Disney Parks app. Special Edition: IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth – Conclude your day at the park by attending a special edition of the park’s nighttime fireworks show, “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” which begins at 9 p.m. View the full article

While Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is beloved by boys and ghouls of all ages, all it is especially fun for families with toddlers. There’s a bevy of kid-friendly activities, loads of candy and yummy Halloween treats, a bewitching fireworks display — plus everyone can dress up in their favorite costumes. With grinning ghosts and costumed characters galore, Magic Kingdom Park is gently transformed with frightfully fun décor. Along with all the extra entertainment favorite attractions are open to enjoy. Besides the sweets, the best part of the night is “Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade.” Trust me, it’s enchanting. We talked to some moms and kids at the party and they shared their reactions and tips on how to get the most out of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Have a look. View the full article

Hey Guys! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re getting down to the serious business of late night snacking at Walt Disney World! Making the most of a Walt Disney World vacation often means burning the candle at both ends — and you’ve gotta fuel your late night push! Here are our picks for the best late night snacks and where to find them. And if you love this video, there’s plenty more for you to enjoy over on our DFB YouTube Channel! By the way, have you subscribed yet? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to the channel and never miss a single episode! So check out the video and then let us know about your favorite light night snacks! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: New Video: 20 MORE Disney Snacks You Have to Try! New DFB Video: Best Walt Disney World Restaurants for First Timers New DFB Video: The Disney Dole Whip! View the full article

I love being a local here in Central Florida, especially during Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month – a program that gives diners the chance to enjoy a spectacular three-course prix fixe dinner for only $35 per person while benefiting Freedom Ride and BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation. Every year, I make a point to try at least one new (or new-to-me) restaurant, and over the years, I’ve enjoyed some incredible meals! This year, guests can indulge at more than 100 Orlando-area restaurants, including three of my favorites at Disney Springs: Morimoto Asia, Paddlefish and STK Orlando. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to treat yourself to a tasty night out, this is it! Whether you fancy international cuisine, seafood, or steak, you’re sure to find something to please your palate at a price you can’t pass up. Click the links below to see the featured menu items from each venue: Morimoto Asia Paddlefish STK Orlando As a seasoned Magical Dining pro, I’d strongly suggest making reservations in advance. (It’s easy to book using the links above or via 407-WDW-DINE.) With just over a week to take part at STK Orlando and roughly two weeks to experience Magical Dining at Paddlefish and Morimoto Asia, now is the time to make your plans. Get the girls together, design your dream date night or make it a family affair … no matter who you dine with, I have no doubt it will be a delicious evening you won’t soon forget! Magical Dining Month menus feature three courses for $35 per person, including appetizer, entrée and dessert and cannot be combined with other offers, packages or discounts. One dollar from each meal supports Freedom Ride and BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation. STK Orlando is offering their Magical Dining Menu through October 1, 2017 while Paddlefish and Morimoto Asia have extended through October 12, 2017. View the full article

Check out a spectacular summer sunset at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge in tonight’s “After Dark” image. Copper Creek Villas & Cabins, the newest Disney Vacation Club resort, offers a wide variety of accommodation types. Sleeping up to eight people, 26 waterfront Cascade Cabins feature a full kitchen, spacious dining and living room areas, an indoor/outdoor fireplace and even a built-in hot tub on the screened-in wraparound porch. Whether it’s taking a dip in the hot tub or relaxing in rocking chairs, there’s no wrong way to enjoy a breathtaking view like this! View the full article

Tuesday evening, hundreds of Disney Parks Blog readers gathered at Disney California Adventure park for a unique evening of science, storytelling and Disney magic at the Disney Parks Blog Galactic Meet-Up. The evening began with a panel discussion featuring a group of scientists, explorers and storytellers. Featured Panelists: Capt. Mike Foreman – Former NASA astronaut Dr. Kimberly Ennico Smith – NASA Astrophysicist Stephen Wacker – Vice President of Development, TV and New Media, Marvel Entertainment John Mauro – Regional Executive Producer, Walt Disney Imagineering Amy Jupiter – Executive Media Producer, Walt Disney Imagineering This fascinating panel discussion explored the ways science influences the storytelling that we bring to life in innovative ways at Disney Parks as well as the ways stories inspire scientists to think differently about how they explore our universe. Following the panel discussion, event guests were treated to a dessert reception featuring appearances by Star-Lord and Gamora as well as the opportunity to experience the new Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark. Take a look at this out-of-this-world event! We were also excited to welcome students from the Anaheim Union High School District, each with an interest in science education. After watching the panel discussion, the students were invited onto the Hyperion Theater stage to meet and talk with the panelists. Did you attend the Disney Parks Blog Galactic Meet-Up? What was your favorite part? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Spoiler alert: The Atlanta Braves and ESPN Wide World of Sports at Disney are breaking up after two decades. Things happen. The Braves have found a new home on Florida’s west coast in North Port, where commissioners on Tuesday approved a $100 million development deal for a new complex. And so the... View the full article

#DisneyKids: Meet BB-8 at Disney's Hollywood Studios | Walt Disney World View the full article

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort has expanded to Disney California Adventure park, bringing the first-ever Haul-O-Ween at Cars Land. And the evening of Tuesday, Oct. 3, a lucky group of Disney Parks Blog readers will have a special opportunity to join the frightful fun at the Disney Parks Blog Haul-O-Ween Meet-Up! After the park closes for the evening, meet-up guests will join the residents of Radiator Springs (appearing in their Haul-O-Ween car-stumes), enjoy two new seasonal attractions (Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween and Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree) along with guest favorite Radiator Springs Racers, and of course indulge in special seasonal treats galore. Meet-up guests are welcome to attend in costume, but must observe the costume guidelines listed below. Space for this experience is limited, and you must sign up here. Confirmation emails will be sent after registration has reached capacity and closed. Please remember the following: All participants who sign up for this experience must be 18 years or older, but guests of the participants may be younger than 18 Limit one guest per registrant Confirmations are non-transferrable and have no cash value Confirmation will be for the accepted registered person plus one guest Valid photo I.D. will be required at check-in Space is limited to 150 registrants. Registrations will be accepted in the order received based on eligibility and capacity Disney California Adventure park admission will be provided beginning at 8:30 p.m., but participants will be responsible for any parking fees I will give an update at the top of this post when capacity has been reached. Please note this experience is subject to restrictions, change and cancellation without notice. Costume Guidelines While we encourage creativity, we also value safety and good judgment. Please take a moment to read over our latest rules and regulations: All Guests may dress as their favorite character, but may not pose for pictures or sign autographs for other Guests Costumes must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, objectionable or violent Costumes may not contain any weapons that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon Costumes may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another Guest Layered costumes or costume props that surround the entire body are strongly discouraged and may be subject to additional security screening Costumes may not reach or drag on the ground (e.g., full-length Princess dresses) For Guests Ages 13 and Under: Costumes and some masks may be worn, as long the mask does not cover the entire face and eyes are visible For Guests Ages 14 and Older: Capes may be worn if the length does not go below the waist Themed T-shirts, blouses, sweatshirts and hats are acceptable Acceptable accessories include: transparent wings, plastic light sabers, toy swords and tutus Masks of any kind may not be worn, except for medical purposes Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into, and/or removed from, the event, unless his or her costume can be modi ed to meet the above standards. While we encourage creativity, we also value safety and good judgment. The above costume guidelines apply throughout the duration of Mickey’s Halloween Party. Please note: all rules, regulations and guidelines are subject to change without notice. *Items that are available in the Parks (swords, lightsabers) are exempt. View the full article

Though Satu’li Canteen — located in Disney World’s newest land of Pandora — The World of AVATAR — is still a new restaurant, there is already a change to report. Learn About: Satu'li Canteen Animal Kingdom Disney World Restaurants The main dining establishment in Pandora has discontinued its Breakfast service for now. I say “for now” because guests will still be able to catch breakfast at Satu’li Canteen from time to time. It will be an option during peak crowd seasons such as the weeks right around the Christmas holiday and Spring Break. So, you may still have the opportunity to grab some Cinnamon French Toast or Scrambled Eggs, Bacon and Spinach Steamed Pods depending on the time of year of your visit. Cinnamon French Toast This adjustment, in many ways, makes sense. While we really enjoyed breakfast at Satu’li, it was only open for the first hour of the morning since the Lunch and Dinner menu kicks in at 10:00 am. And, let’s face it, most Pandora guests are spending that first precious hour in Pandora as part of the crowd making a beeline straight for the crazy popular (and SUPER awesome) Flight of Passage attraction. Pandora Wait Times…once you actually get into Pandora…on opening day This doesn’t mean breakfast options are lacking in Animal Kingdom, though! Remember, Local Foods Cafe (the Yak & Yeti Counter Service location) began serving breakfast earlier this summer. Creature Comforts (the Animal Kingdom Starbucks) and Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery are additional Counter Service options, or you could always start your day with a terrific Character Meal breakfast at Tusker House, to name a few. No matter where you start it, though, it’s always a good morning if you’re in Animal Kingdom, right? Have you dined at Satu’li Canteen? Please let us know about your experience with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News: Breakfast Items at Satu’li Canteen in Pandora at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Review: Breakfast at the New Satu’li Canteen in Animal Kingdom’s Pandora News: Full Menu for Satu’li Canteen in Animal Kingdom’s Pandora View the full article

Yes, grown-ups love the sophisticated food and beverages in the Global Marketplaces at Epcot that encircle World Showcase Lagoon and stretch into Future World – 35 in all – but there’s plenty for younger palates too at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. We took a stroll with two little ones, one with a pickier palate, the other a bit more adventurous. Here’s what we found they loved best (excluding sweets, which get their own short list at the end of this blog post). 1. The No. 1 favorite was the Zesty Cheeseburger and Cheddar Cheese Macaroni Handwich at the Epcot Legacy Showplace, an ode to the Disney handwich of the late 1980s. 2. Kalua Pork Slider with Sweet and Sour Dole Pineapple Chutney and Spicy Mayonnaise at Hawai’i Marketplace. (Picky eater asked for no spicy mayo.) 3. Crispy Chicken with Griddled Cornbread and Red Eye Gravy at Farm Fresh Marketplace. (Picky eater avoided the gravy.) 4. Ricotta and Zucchini Ravioli at Earth Eats Marketplace. Pasta always wins. 5. Marinated Chicken with Peanut Sauce and Stir-Fried Vegetables at Thailand Marketplace. The sweet sauce made this one a winner. 6. Chicken Pot Stickers at China Marketplace. Familiar tastes. 7. Mango Lassi at India Marketplace (the only drink on our list). 8. Schinkennudeln at Germany Marketplace, Pasta Gratin with Ham and Cheese. Comfort food at its finest. 9. Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup – a perennial favorite for all ages at the Canada Marketplace. 10. Le Cellier Wild Mushroom Beef Filet Mignon with Truffle-Butter Sauce at the Canada Marketplace (they both skipped the mushrooms but loved the buttery filet). 11. Sweet Pancake with Spicy-Chipotle Chicken Sausage, Onion Jam and Maple Butter Syrup at Flavors from Fire (a big hit with the adventurous eater). Sweets deserve their own category, so here are the Top 5: 1. L’Orange Cotton Candy at the Epcot Legacy Showplace. 2. Peanut Butter and White Chocolate Mousse with a Caramel Drizzle at Earth Eats. 3. Quesito Puff Pastry with Sweetened Cream Cheese and Guava Sauce at Islands of the Caribbean. 4. Bougatsa at the Greece Marketplace, a Warm Phyllo Dough Strudel with Sweet Vanilla Custard, Lemon-Honey Syrup and Cinnamon. 5. Belgian waffle with Berry Compote and Whipped Cream at the Belgium Marketplace. View the full article

Not all heroes wear capes – some wear running shoes. This past weekend, a record-breaking 10,000 runners signed up to take flight in Marvel 10K Weekend 2017 – Presented by AIA Vitality at Hong Kong Disneyland. As with all great heroes, they didn’t act alone. Participants were joined by the legendary Captain America, Thor, Spider-Man, Star-Lord, and, for the first time at Hong Kong Disneyland, Black Widow, Hawkeye, Gamora and Doctor Strange. Throughout the weekend, runners competed in four action-packed races: the Captain America 10K, Thor 5K, Spider-Man 3K and Kid Races. This year also marked the inaugural Leadership 3K, which gave local leaders the chance to run as a way to encourage healthy living. Participants in this year’s Marvel 10K Weekend also had the chance to make a difference for people in need. Disney VoluntEARS united with Do Good volunteers from Chow Tai Fook to help raise support and awareness of the Hong Kong Association for Cleft Lip and Palate, whose mission is to serve patients with physical challenges and provide care to their families and caretakers. In addition to supporting the Hong Kong Association for Cleft Lip and Palate, runners became green heroes by bringing their own water bottles or drinking from reusable cups provided at the event center. The event was entirely carbon neutral, and the funds given through carbon offsetting were used for a renewable energy project in China. Once again, congratulations to all the runners who came out for this year’s Marvel 10K Weekend. As with all great super heroes, you remind us all that good is not a thing you are, it’s a thing you do. View the full article

We’re just weeks away until the epic Marvel Day at Sea event kicks off on select Disney Magic cruises! This new portrait of Thor leaves no doubt that the god of thunder and lightning is the true picture of worthiness. Hailing from the mythical realm of Asgard, Thor wields one of the greatest weapons ever made, the enchanted hammer Mjolnir. Thor is smart, compassionate and self-assured, and he will never, ever stop fighting for a worthwhile cause. Often at odds with his half-brother Loki, Thor is a self-proclaimed protector of Earth and a founding member of the Avengers. During Marvel Day at Sea, you may have a heroic encounter with Thor as he wields his powerful hammer Mjölnir around the ship or see him in another epic battle with his brother Loki in the nighttime deck show. In Marvel’s Avengers Academy, young guests can come face-to-face with the mighty Thor to discover what it takes to become a true hero. In a special youth activity, Thor teaches kids the path to becoming worthy through strength, knowledge and compassion. Stay tuned to meet more Super Heroes assembling for Marvel Day at Sea, which premieres on select 7- and 8-night Disney Cruise Line sailings from New York this fall, and returns on select 5-night Western Caribbean cruises from Miami in early 2018. View the full article

It would be a Disney World dream come true for some people: An overnight stay inside Cinderella Castle is the prize in a charity campaign that will benefit the Give Kids the World charity. The winner, selected randomly, and five other guests will spend the night in the Cinderella Castle Suite at... View the full article

It would be a Disney World dream come true for some people: An overnight stay inside Cinderella Castle is the prize in a charity campaign that will benefit the Give Kids the World charity. The winner, selected randomly, and five other guests will spend the night in the Cinderella Castle Suite at... View the full article

Fall at Walt Disney World Resort doesn’t just bring a change in the weather and the start of popular seasonal events – it also brings a change in photo opportunities! From the delightfully festive to the downright villainous, today I’m sharing the top five Magic Shots you can take with Disney PhotoPass Service photographers this fall at Walt Disney World Resort. All you have to do is ask a PhotoPass photographer! Some of these Magic Shots are only available for a limited time, so be sure to note which you can receive during your visit. The recipe to creating the perfect keepsake of your visit to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival? Including Remy in your photo! Those with the appetite to take this photo shouldn’t waste time chewing it over; this Magic Shot will only be available at Epcot during the festival, which runs through November 13. Iago can become your sidekick at most PhotoPass locations at Magic Kingdom Park or at Oasis at Disney’s Animal Kingdom through November 2. Not visiting before November 2? This Magic Shot is available at the Epcot Morocco Pavilion year-round. Beware of hitchhiking ghosts! Throughout the year, one or more of these loveable phantoms might just join your photo near the exit of the Haunted Mansion. Through November 2, the nefarious hyenas from “The Lion King” are wreaking havoc at select PhotoPass locations in Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Conjure up the perfect photo through November 2 on Sunset Boulevard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios or at most PhotoPass locations at Magic Kingdom Park. Want to know what other Magic Shots are available at Walt Disney World Resort? The Disney PhotoPass Service Facebook page has a photo album showing each park’s current Magic Shot offerings and where they can typically be found. Be sure to check it out right before your visit – the available Magic Shots and their locations are continually updated! Magic Shots can be purchased individually at MyDisneyPhotoPass.com or downloaded as part of an active Memory Maker or Memory Maker One Day entitlement. Please note that these Magic Shots cannot be taken at Character Experience locations. View the full article

In our Disney Doodles blog series, our team of Disney artists imagine what a Disney character would do or see they had the chance to visit a Disney Park. In today’s Doodle, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what Jiminy Cricket from “Pinocchio” would do first if we had a chance to visit Epcot – especially this time of year when the park is packed with foodie fun at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. “Jiminy is always making sure everything is in order!” Ashley said. “So it’s easy to imagine him spending his mornings on top of Spaceship Earth! He can look down and make sure the park is clean and ready for guests!” View the full article

We wait all year for the start of it. Yep — the Epcot Food and Wine Festival is underway! If you haven’t been, be sure to put the event on your Disney Bucket List. At this time of year, Epcot is transformed into a food lover’s paradise. With Festival Marketplace Booths throughout both Future World and World Showcase, the opportunity to Eat Your Way Around the World(s) is even more exciting! But then there are also so many events to attend. From free options like book signings and Back to Basics Seminars, to Low Cost Seminars and Demonstrations, there are lots of less expensive options. But there are also some choices if you’d like to splurge a little. Party for the Senses draws big crowds every year, as do pairing events and signature dining options at restaurants throughout the resort. Booths Are Going Up! It’s Almost Time! It’s a lot to plan for! So we’d love to offer you advice on a few Dos and Don’ts for navigating the Epcot Food and Wine Festival like a pro. Consider these pointers as you make plans to attend this year’s event. DO Consider Attending a Special Event. Special Events take place throughout the festival and offer guests opportunities to get up close and personal with chefs, sample a multitude of dishes and sips, or learn more about food and beverage pairings. While they can be pricey, they represent some of the most wonderful opportunities to enjoy yourself at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. While many of the events take place at Epcot, there are several that are held at resorts throughout Walt Disney World. One of our favorites is Behind the Scenes at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. Deconstructed Shrimp Dish and Drinks at Behind the Scenes at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Get a peek behind the curtain of all the curious magic that makes Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto one of the most intriguing spots in all of Disney. And with samples of both dishes and drinks along the way, you get a great idea of fun food options here, too. But if tikis aren’t your thing, consider a Cheese Seminar and learn to pair the world’s best cheeses with beverages like an expert. Fancy a trip to France? Indulge in the Parisian Breakfast, one of the festival’s best events (and a terrific bargain as well!), or take in a leisurely lunch during French Family Traditions. Parisian Breakfast If grand tastings + partying the night away are more your style, then check out Party for the Senses, held select Saturdays throughout the festival. FOOD AND WINE BOOTHS AND MENUS DO Eat Good Stuff. I mean, after all, this is why we’re here, right? You must seek out old favorites, and try some delicious new drinks and dishes. This year, we’re psysched to see some really inventive and fun new items at the booths — 35 in all! Wait until you get the chance to try the Teriyaki-glazed SPAM® Hash with Potatoes, Peppers and Onions, and Spicy Mayonnaise from Hawai’i. Teriyaki-glazed SPAM® Hash with Potatoes, Peppers and Onions, and Spicy Mayonnaise And there’s so much goodness coming! Returning favorites like the Escondidinho de Carne in Brazil and the Loaded Mac and Cheese at Active Eats are both on our short list, too. Be sure to check out all 12 of the things that you must eat (and drink) at this year’s festival for even more recommendations. DO Go at the Right Time. The Epcot Food and Wine Festival has grown like crazy, and that means that it can be quite busy at times. You’ll want to plan ahead to miss the biggest crowds. Because I don’t know about you, but standing in long lines for food doesn’t rate among my favorite things to do. Start Your Planning NOW! News! The DFB Guide to the 2017 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book is now available to order! This 250+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever. We cover every single World Showcase Booth, and include full-color photos for most of the food items being offered at this year’s festival! Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World! Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% discount! Be sure to stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for all of the latest coverage about the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival. We’ll have the details FIRST! Crowds swell especially on the weeekends and in the evenings so, if at all possible, plan your visit for a weekday, and try to get there earlier in the day. Also, avoid the beginning and ending weekends of the festival, which are both typically very busy times as well. Lines. Yeah. No. For some other suggestions on how to make the most of your visit, check out our Top Tips for the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. On the other hand, here are a few definite DON’Ts… Don’t wait until the last minute. Special Events, Demonstrations, and Seminars tend to sell out quickly. You don’t want to wait until you arrive for the festival to make your arrangements. Be sure to check out our dedicated Epcot Food and Wine Festival pages in order to make your arrangements now. We loved this Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It! Workshop learning about wine, chocolate, and cheese pairing. You should check it out! Find links for schedules of ALL the culinary demonstrations, beverage seminars, and hands-on workshops on our Low-Cost Event main page. Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It: Wine, Cheese, and Chocolate Paired Perfectly Likewise, you want to review those Booth Menus and Photos before you arrive. Trust me when I say that trying to tackle 35 booths without a plan isn’t going to work well for you. Research your options ahead and time, and know what you would like to try the most before you hit the turnstiles. Don’t Miss Festival Exclusive Schofferhofer Hefeweizen Pomegranate Beer at Also, don’t skip the festival because you’re short on time or you have kids in tow. Even if you have only one day, with our tips and strategies, you can still see and do a lot at the festival! As for the kiddos, getting them involved by choosing dishes to try is the perfect way to engage them. Also, check out Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt, a fun experience for kids of all ages! For even more Don’ts, be sure to check out our post, What NOT to Do at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. Want More Epcot Food and Wine Festival Info? We’ll have all the coverage and information you need right here on Disney Food Blog! 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Index 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booth and Menu Index 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Special Events 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Low-Cost Seminars and Demonstrations 2017 Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule Epcot Food and Wine Festival Fans Facebook Page 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Wine and Dine Half Marathon 2017 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Food and Wine Festival 101 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Gluten Free Items How to Book Epcot Food & Wine Festival Events To book all special events and demonstrations, call 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378) starting July 20 at 7:00AM ET. Culinary Demonstrations and Beverage Seminars and general admission for some special events may be bookable online at www.epcotfoodfestival.com as well as by phone. Tables in Wonderland members, Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members, and Golden Oak Residents are eligible for a $2 discount (per person, per event) for beverage and seminars and culinary demos taking place Mon-Thurs during the festival. Members of these groups can also book all Special Events early on July 18th beginning at 9:00AM ET. Discounts are by phone only at 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378). Stay tuned to DisneyFoodBlog.com and the Disney Food Blog Newsletter for details. Chase Disney Visa Cardholders will not have early access to booking. Now we wanna here from you! What are your tried and true Dos and Don’ts for the Epcot Food and Wine Festival? Leave a comment and share your tips with us! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: The 12 Things You MUST Eat at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival This Year New Video: Our Top Tips for the Epcot Food and Wine Festival! 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Tip: How Many Days Should I Budget For the Festival? View the full article

Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark is now open, taking Disney California Adventure park guests on a whole new adventure during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort. In the video below, Imagineers Joe Rohde and Amy Jupiter explain more about this new take on Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! and give a peek at what guests can expect when they help Rocket attempt to #SaveGroot from The Collector’s Fortress! Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark is now open each night during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort through October 31, with Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! continuing throughout the season during the day. View the full article